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Explore your potential future as a software engineer! This research-packed guide will help you make an educated decision about earning an online software engineering bachelor’s degree. Learn about how online BS in software engineering programs work, why you might pursue one, and important points to consider before you make your decision.
Once you’re ready to commit, use our state-by-state listings to find the best schools offering online software engineering bachelor’s degrees.
Can You Earn a Software Engineering Degree Online?
Absolutely. Over 50 colleges & universities now offer online bachelor’s degrees in software engineering. Browse through our listings to discover all of your choices. Regionally accredited schools like Arizona State University, Penn State University, University of Maryland—and many more—have developed reputable BS programs that prepare students for an impactful role in the software industry.
What Types of Software Degrees Are Available Online?
Before online degrees in software engineering became widely available, other software-related programs were offered. Many of the concepts and skills required for software engineering evolved from these related fields. That means prospective undergraduate students interested in software studies may wish to consider the following majors:
- Software Engineering: Oversee the entire software development life cycle, from creating specifications to deploying the end product.
- Software Development: Design, build, and maintain software applications.
- Computer Science: Apply and develop data analysis, algorithms, and computational theory to improve software’s performance and capabilities.
- Computer Programming: Write code to instruct a computer application’s performance.
- Data Engineering: Design and create systems for data collection, storage, and application.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Software Engineering & Development
Rankings Methodology
To come up with our rankings, we created a unique algorithm made up of multiple quality factors. To be eligible for consideration, online undergraduate programs in software-related fields were judged on a number of criteria:
- Relevance: We were willing to consider online BS programs with majors in software development or software engineering, as well as undergraduate degrees that offered software concentrations and minors. That’s why you’ll see some programs in computer science, IT, and computer engineering.
- Quality: Any program with strong U.S. News & World report placements and ABET accreditation rocketed to the head of our rankings. We accepted ABET-accredited online engineering programs and BSIT programs with ABET accreditation through the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC).
- Affordability: Our rankings algorithm takes tuition costs into account. Consequently, more expensive private schools may rank below public universities.
- Results: We used government data on student completion rates to evaluate the relative success of the online undergraduate program. Our algorithm rewards higher completion numbers, so large enrollment numbers can help schools move up the ranks. However, we’ve also tried to highlight online degrees with small class sizes.
#1 Pennsylvania State University – World Campus
Overview | Online BS in Software Engineering
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: Behrend School of Engineering
- ABET-Accredited: Yes
- Credit Hours: 126
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Penn State’s Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering ticks all our boxes for quality. It’s ABET-accredited. It contains plenty of challenging technical coursework. And it’s industry focused. In a team-based capstone project, you’ll design, plan, manage, and implement a software system for a corporate partner. You’ll graduate with a thorough understanding of computer programming & networks, as well as software design, software validation & verification, and software security.
Better yet, your professors will come from the highly ranked Behrend School of Engineering. The School has strong name recognition – more than 95% of its graduates are employed in their fields within one year – and a real-world outlook. Every year, it hosts a Fasenmyer Engineering Design Conference to showcase the collaboration between students and industry sponsors on their senior-year capstone projects.
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#2 Arizona State University
Overview | Online BS in Software Engineering
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering; School of Computing & Augmented Intelligence
- ABET-Accredited: Yes
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Rigor is the name of the game with ASU’s Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering. This ABET-accredited undergraduate degree is built on a foundation of advanced coursework in math, physics, programming, and software enterprise. You’ll learn how to plan, design, and construct software engineering products and complete real-world software engineering projects within each semester of the program. The degree concludes with a two-semester capstone experience.
Prepare to be challenged! ASU’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering has a healthy track record in online learning, and its School of Computing & Augmented Intelligence (SCAI) is home to some impressive faculty and research labs. Online tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state undergraduates and almost 80% of all ASU students receive some form of financial aid. Ask the BS program coordinator if you can apply for any Fulton Engineering Scholarships or chat to an SCAI Mentor.
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#3 University of Arizona
Overview | Online BS in Software Engineering
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: College of Engineering; Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Like other top schools, UA’s Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering contains a technical core of advanced mathematics, programming, and engineering disciplines, as well as coursework in every stage of the software development lifecycle. But the interdisciplinary curriculum also covers methodologies such as automated testing using continuous integration, Agile development, and Software Development & Information Technology Operations (SW DevOps).
UA’s undergraduate software engineering program is relatively new (2021), so the College of Engineering is still in the process of seeking ABET accreditation for it. However, it has plenty of other achievements to boast about. Software engineering students within the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE) work on design projects every semester. They participate in “design-build” competitions and industry internships. And they learn from research-driven ECE faculty.
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#4 University of Cincinnati
Overview | Online BSIT: Software Application Development
- Availability: Online; IT Expo in Senior Year
- School or College: School of Information Technology
- ABET-Accredited: Yes
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 5 Years
Program Summary
Prefer a little less engineering? Check out UC’s Online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT). This ABET-accredited IT program is heavily focused on practical learning. Almost all major courses contain real-world projects & labs and there’s a two-semester senior design project that culminates in a presentation at the annual IT Expo. If you opt for the software-focused concentration, you’ll study topics like game development, enterprise & web server application development, mobile device programming, and more.
UC’s secret weapon is the mandatory Co-Op Experience. All IT undergraduates – even online students – take part in 5 semesters of paid work in the IT industry. By the end of your degree, you’ll have one year of work experience to list on your résumé. While you’re at UC, you may also wish to request help from Student Success Coaches within the School of Information Technology or get involved with developing industry products and applications at the IT Solutions Center (ITSC).
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#5 Kennesaw State University
Overview | Online BS in Software Engineering
- Availability: 100% Online or Hybrid
- College: College of Computing & Software Engineering; Department of Software Engineering and Game Design & Development (SWEGD)
- ABET-Accredited: Yes
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
KSU’s Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (BSSWE) is ABET-accredited, so expect to see foundational coursework in advanced math, programming, and science. Once you reach the major, you can start to focus on the software development lifecycle—think of topics such as systems requirements, architecture & design, testing & quality assurance, and project management. All BSSWE students tackle a team-based capstone design experience that involves the development of a realistic software system.
If this sounds promising, take a look at the resources within the Department of Software Engineering and Game Design & Development (SWEGD). SWEGD offers advanced coursework in user interaction engineering, component-based development, and embedded systems. Or learn more about the Computing Showcase (C-Day) for undergraduate research. It’s a valuable in-person networking event. Keep in mind that you’ll also be allowed to choose a CSE Computing Internship as an elective within the BSSWE.
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#6 DePaul University
Overview | Online BS in Computer Science: Software Development
- Availability: 100% Online; Check Transfer Requirements
- School or College: Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 147 Quarter Credits (Transfer Plan)
- Program Length: 3 Years (Transfer Plan)
Program Summary
Do you have existing credits? Consider DePaul’s Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Software Development. It’s a completion program that welcomes students with a minimum of 45 quarter/30 semester hours of transfer credit. In three years, you’ll complete coursework in computer systems, design & analysis of algorithms, programming, and software development & testing. You can add plenty of software electives. And you’ll finish with a team-based capstone that’s focused on a software project.
Before you commit yourself, talk to the BS program coordinator to learn more about DePaul’s transfer policies and degree requirements (not all liberal studies courses are available online). Or take a moment to investigate the Jarvis College of Computing & Digital Media (CDM) and ask about whether transfer students can apply for CDM Scholarships and the Undergraduate Research Assistant Program (URAP).
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DePaul’s Online BS in Computer Science: Software Development
#7 Mercer University
Overview | Online BS in Software Application Development and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
- Availability: 100% Online or Hybrid
- School or College: College of Professional Advancement; Department of Informatics & Mathematics
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
It may have an unwieldy name, but Mercer’s Online Bachelor of Science in Software Application Development and Human-Computer Interaction also has an intriguing curriculum. In addition to learning how to develop, create, and modify software applications, you’ll consider the human side of the software equation. We’re talking about areas like user experience & user interface (UX/UI), user-centered system interface design principles, and ethical responsibilities. The BS finishes with a capstone project.
Although it’s run by the College of Professional Advancement, Mercer’s interdisciplinary program is taught by faculty within the Department of Informatics & Mathematics. So you’ll be mentored by professors with expertise in unusual areas. Undergraduates are encouraged to join the UX and Informatics Clubs and collaborate with Georgia organizations on application and website projects (e.g. MyNextLevl project).
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Mercer’s Online BS in Software Application Development and HCI
#8 Florida International University
Overview | Online BS in Computer Engineering
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: College of Engineering & Computing; Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering
- ABET-Accredited: Yes
- Credit Hours: 128
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Like the campus program, FIU’s affordable Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering is ABET-accredited. So be ready for a challenging curriculum that contains core coursework in electrical & computer engineering! We noticed credits in hardware architecture, software engineering, hardware-software integration, and computer networking. You can customize this degree with a software-focused concentration area (e.g. data system software). And you’ll have the chance to complete a senior design project.
As the title suggests, FIU’s program is best-suited to students who really want to dig deep into hardware & software systems. The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) runs scores of research labs & centers and employs a diverse range of experienced faculty. If you’re thinking of further education, ask the BS program coordinator if online undergraduates are eligible for the Combined BS/MS in Computer Engineering pathway. You’ll shorten your master’s degree by one year.
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#9 Concordia University Wisconsin
Overview | Online BS in Applied Computer Science
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: College of Arts & Sciences; Department of Computer Science
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
You can choose your own adventure with CUW’s Online Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science. Although it doesn’t offer a dedicated software engineering concentration like the campus version, this distance program has a solid core of coursework in coding, databases, software engineering principles, AI, cybersecurity, and operating systems. You’ll also be able to customize your degree plan with up to 40 credits of software-focused electives. Ask the BS program coordinator which CSC courses are available online.
CUW is remarkably friendly towards adult & post-traditional learners – it accepts up to 84 transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree and it offers Uncommon Scholarships. The Department of Computer Science isn’t as big or prestigious as some of the other research-heavy schools in our rankings, but faculty are active in a range of fields. Online students will also be exposed to work-focused assignments, small class sizes, and bi-weekly meetings with professors.
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#10 Saint Leo University
Overview | Online BS in Software Engineering
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: School of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Data Science (CARDS)
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Saint Leo’s Online Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering is a virtual version of its on-campus program. This practical degree is packed with core coursework in programming, systems, and complex software issues, including mandatory credits in software engineering, software architecture, software quality assurance, and software requirements engineering. All BS students must complete a capstone project that focuses on end-to-end design & implementation.
Saint Leo might be a good pick for those who have a side interest in security issues. The School of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Data Science (CARDS) has an NSA-designated Center for Cybersecurity Education (CCE) and online undergraduates have virtual access to the University Campus cybersecurity lab. You should also chat to the BS program coordinator about the possibility of an internship with a Florida company—these are optional at Saint Leo, but still recommended.
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#11 Grand Canyon University
Overview | Online BS in Software Development
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: College of Science, Engineering & Technology
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
GCU’s Online Bachelor of Science in Software Development may not be ABET-accredited, but plenty of its other programs are. This isn’t surprising for an undergraduate degree that prioritizes software development over software engineering. The BS curriculum leans hard on credits in programming, web & application development, and cloud computing. During the final capstone experience, you’ll develop – and then implement – a real-world applied research & design project.
Take a look at the faculty bios and the College of Science, Engineering and Technology to get a better handle on the program and its approach. It’s important to note that GCU is a private university that incorporates Christian principles into STEM learning. For example, you might be challenged to consider ethical decision-making in your capstone. You’ll also be required to take a general education course on the Christian worldview as part of your studies.
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#12 Purdue University Global
Overview | Online BSIT: Software Development
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: Purdue Global
- ABET-Accredited: Yes
- Credit Hours: 180 Quarter Credits
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Purdue Global doesn’t have the same name cachet as the on-campus university, but it does have an Online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) that has been accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET. You’ll be allowed to choose from a large number of concentrations – many in software development & specific programming languages – and you’ll finish your degree with an internship or a capstone project.
Purdue is a solid choice for working professionals. There’s an accelerated, competency-based ExcelTrack® for motivated learners with 3+ years of prior experience. Transfer credit is allowed for previous IT industry certifications. And tuition reductions are available for employees of corporate partners. You’re even allowed to try before you buy. Purdue Global allows undergraduates to experience their program for an introductory 3-week period.
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#13 Bellarmine University
Overview | Accelerated Online BS in Software & Data Engineering
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: College of Arts & Sciences
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 37 (Second Degree Plan)
- Program Length: 1 Year (Second Degree Plan)
Program Summary
Bellarmine’s Accelerated Online Bachelor of Science in Software & Data Engineering is open to students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field. If this sounds like you, then you can speed through your studies in one short year. You’ll start with fundamentals in computing, programming, and database management systems, before delving into software design & development, algorithms, and a capstone or internship. It’s not super-rigorous, but it gets the job done.
Coursework is asynchronous, which means you can work on your own time. However, software & data engineering professors are required to have two hours of live office hours each week and solutions to online assignments are released regularly so students stay in sync. Since Bellarmine is a private Catholic university, you’ll also be required to complete a course in technology, ethics & society (e.g. privacy, intellectual property issues, deep fakes, etc.) and another in theology.
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Bellarmine’s Accelerated Online BS in Software & Data Engineering
#14 Maryville University
Overview | Online BS in Computer Science: Software Development
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: College of Arts & Sciences; John E. Simon School of Business
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 128
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
School yourself in all aspects of computer science & software with Maryville’s Online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Software Development. The standard 4-year curriculum will expose you to coursework in programming, operating systems, software development methods & tools, web application development, DevOps, and more. But you can also start with a stand-alone Online Certificate in Software Development and apply it to the BS when you’re ready for a degree.
The BS program is the result of a collaboration between the John E. Simon School of Business and College of Arts and Sciences. So Maryville makes a point of noting that undergraduates will be exposed to relevant industry technologies and hands-on projects, case studies, and practical activities. Be sure to ask the program coordinator if online students can connect with Maryville’s corporate partners on an internship or the capstone. Current partners include World Wide Technology, Express Scripts, and Bayer.
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Maryville’s Online BS in Computer Science: Software Development
#15 Dominican University of California
Overview | Online BS in Applied Computer Science: Coding & Software Design
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: Barowsky School of Business
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 124
- Program Length: 3 Years with Summer Semesters; 2 Years with Prior Degree
Program Summary
Looking for speed, quality, and practicality? Take a minute to investigate Dominican’s Online Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science: Coding & Software Design. This 3-year program is packed with real-world industry projects, immersive experiences in software development & engineering, and team software projects. Once you’ve tackled first-year coursework in programming, data structures, and web foundations, you can focus on a minor in coding & software design.
Dominican’s Barowsky School of Business is bound and determined to make sure its BS students are prepared for the job market. You’ll work with real companies on your second-year project and internship, and you’ll study engineering management, leadership, and communication throughout your degree. Within 6 months of graduation, 95% of BS graduates are working as junior software engineers. Over 25% of graduates receive offers from major tech companies like Apple, Amazon, Meta, Netflix, and Microsoft.
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Dominican’s Online BS in Applied Computer Science: Coding & Software Design
#16 Champlain College
Overview | Online BS in Software Development
- Availability: 100% Online
- School or College: Champlain College Online
- ABET-Accredited: No
- Credit Hours: 120
- Program Length: 4 Years
Program Summary
Save big with Champlain’s affordable & military-friendly Online Bachelor of Science in Software Development. This comprehensive program contains coursework in 23+ applications, platforms, and programming languages, as well as a capstone project in applied software practice. In your final year, you’ll be challenged to create a fully documented product developed in C++, Java or Visual C#. You can even customize your degree with a certificate in C++ Programming or Software Development.
Champlain is a strong pick for adult learners. It offers tuition discounts to military member and employees of truED organizations and its asynchronous coursework can be completed at any time. If you’d like to ease your way into the degree, you can start with the 18-credit online undergraduate certificate first. You’ll also be allowed to transfer up to 90 credits, including credits for previous CISSP Certification.
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What to Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Software Engineering Program
The Online Undergraduate Experience
As an online software engineering student, you’ll be able to fit undergraduate classes into your current schedule. Programs from schools like Penn State University run online management systems that organize coursework & communications and give you convenient access to materials, instructors, and fellow students.
But you will need to be self-motivated. Although systems like Canvas and Blackboard make online learning more manageable, a software engineering degree comes with specific educational challenges. And the technical demands of software-related courses will make diligence a priority.
For instance, in order to learn programming languages, you’ll be required to debug code continuously during the early stages of your online bachelor’s in software engineering. Developing basic programming skills takes hours of trial and error.
- In a campus-based undergraduate program, you would be performing these tasks in a lab setting. In-person teaching assistants would be available to help with frequent debugging issues.
- Online BS programs overcome some of these challenges by offering video chats, emails, and discussion boards. You should be ready to make good use of these interactions by preparing a list of questions and having a complete context of your coding problems.
Online BS in Software Engineering: Program Length
Online BS in software engineering programs vary in length depending on the school:
- Traditional 4-Year Format: Although some flexibility could be allowed in scheduling, many colleges & universities will require you to enroll in a set number of courses each semester. You’ll have an advisor to review your coursework and constant interaction with fellow students & your professors. Like their on-campus counterparts, traditional online BS degrees typically take four years.
- Self-Paced: Certain schools will allow you to work at your own pace throughout your enrollment. This self-paced format means you begin a new course immediately after completing the prior one. If you are interested in graduating as soon as possible, a self-paced degree from a regionally accredited school like Western Governors University is possible.
- Accelerated: Some schools have developed unique accelerated online programs for students who have existing qualifications. For instance, Bellarmine University offers a one-year curriculum for a bachelor’s in software and data engineering. To enroll in this program, you must already hold a bachelor’s degree in a different field (unrelated to computer science or computer information systems).
Online Program Delivery Options
Online BS in software engineering programs in our listings can be delivered in two ways:
- 100% Online: In a 100% online bachelor’s degree, you never have to visit the campus. You’ll study remotely throughout the entire length of the program and complete all assignments & coursework in the place where you live.
- Hybrid: Hybrid BS in software engineering degrees will require you to attend some on-campus classes and complete in-person coursework (e.g. labs). The other portion of your degree will remain online. Check the program website to learn how the school divides up remote & onsite work. You may even be close to a campus offshoot. For instance, the University of Maryland provides more than 20 U.S. locations for its hybrid courses.
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Learning
Online BS in software engineering programs will be offered in two kinds of instructional formats:
- Asynchronous: With an asynchronous format, no classes occur in real time. You’ll be allowed to review material and complete assignments on your schedule. Online programs typically offer this format for most (or all) of their classes. The online BS at Southern New Hampshire University, for example, is entirely made up of asynchronous courses.
- Synchronous: The synchronous format involves real-time instruction—students and professors engage in live online lectures, scheduled for a specific day and time. Synchronous learning isn’t an especially popular format for online programs. But you’ll find some schools like to include virtual opportunities for students to work together.
How to Choose an Online Software Engineering Program
School & Program Accreditation
At a minimum, you should apply to a college or university with regional accreditation (e.g. HLC, NWCCU, SACSCOC, etc.). Regional accreditation means that schools have passed a rigorous process validating their educational standards. With a regionally accredited online degree, you’ll be able to apply for entry-level jobs and graduate programs in software engineering fields.
Ideally, your school of choice will also possess accreditation through the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET). ABET accredits undergraduate programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. But it’s not a “must-have.” A number of sturdy schools have decided not to pursue this credential.
Accreditation is one of the most important considerations for an online degree. Be aware that most employers & graduate schools will discount online degrees from nationally accredited or non-accredited universities!
Institutional Quality / Reputation
You won’t be surprised to hear that elite schools like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and California Polytechnic State University do not offer online software engineering programs. This may change as virtual learning becomes more acceptable in post-pandemic years.
In the meantime, highly reputable schools such as Penn State and Arizona State University provide online bachelor’s programs in software engineering that are equivalent to the quality of an on-campus experience. These are two schools among many that possess the highly regarded ABET accreditation.
Program & Faculty Quality
Consider some of the following questions when assessing the quality of an online BS program:
- Is the online faculty the same as the on-campus program, or are primarily adjuncts and others brought in to meet demand?
You can visit a school’s software engineering website to learn about its faculty members. Arizona State University states that “online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students.” Champlain College provides faculty who are “expert practitioners in the field”—that is, a mixture of full-time faculty and industry professionals. - Are there any reviews or online discussions pointing to student satisfaction with the program?
Some schools provide testimonials from former students. If you’re looking for unbiased feedback, search for commentaries on Quora or Reddit—such as this Arizona State University discussion. Post a question about a school’s program to get input from current or former students. You can also ask the online BS program coordinator if you can speak to recent alumni. - Are there any accolades from publications like U.S. News & World Report?
U.S. News & World Report assesses schools & individual degrees, including online software engineering programs, on an annual basis. You’ll often find that Schools of Engineering or Departments of Computer Science will list accolades on their websites. For instance, Champlain College displays several awards for its program.
Career Aspirations
Many software-related degrees will contain coursework in software engineering principles. However, undergraduate programs in majors like software development, computer science, and computer programming will address topics & coursework that are specific to their objectives. For example, an online degree in software development will focus on a portion of a software application’s life cycle. In contrast, an online software engineering degree will cover the entire process. See our section on Types of Online Software Degrees for more info on each major.
Tuition & Costs
Online bachelor’s degrees in software engineering have similar prices to on-campus programs. Examples of affordable online programs include Middle Georgia State University, Western Governors University, and Champlain College. Annual tuition for these schools might range from $3,500-$9,500. Programs at more expensive schools like Penn State University and Arizona State University will cost roughly $16,000-$20,000 per year.
To keep your tuition expenses low, you may wish to:
- Apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Ask about scholarships & awards for online undergraduate students at your prospective school. Be aware that some schools may only offer certain scholarships to on-campus students.
- Research online programs at public universities within your state. Schools may still be able to offer in-state tuition rates to distance learning students.
- Look into tuition discounts for military service members, veterans, children of military members, employees of partner companies, and the like.
Is an Online Software Engineering Degree Right for You?
Are You Self-Motivated? Can You Stay on Track Without Physically Being on Campus or in Class?
Dedication is important for all online students, but it’s critical for individuals who choose technical fields in software. Theoretical content is an integral part of an online BS in software engineering. You’ll need diligence and self-discipline to work independently on abstract concepts and technical courses like the Design and Analysis of Data Structures & Algorithms.
Are You Comfortable Communicating via Email and Zoom?
Online bachelor’s degrees in software engineering will require you to work collaboratively on projects. Most schools in our listings offer a program orientation and virtual support for your computing needs. And new communication technologies make group work convenient for remote students. However, already possessing basic computing skills will help ease your transition into online studies.
Furthermore, you need to prioritize robust internet service. Poor internet connections & speeds create massive challenges for software engineering students, who rely heavily on instruction through videos and tutorials for technical content.
Online BS Programs are Technical—Are You Prepared to Complete Coursework Remotely?
Online software engineering undergraduates need discipline and motivation to handle the continuous hours of independent and technical coursework. As you apply concepts, you’ll have many questions about your work. Being prepared during remote visits with professors & fellow students can help you make productive use of your time. Solid organizational skills will ensure you get speedy answers to your technical questions.
The good news is that becoming proficient in a remote setting will provide you with a valued skill set in the software engineering industry. Numerous companies now allow software engineers to work part- or full-time from home.
Can You Balance an Online Bachelor’s Degree with Prior Commitments (e.g. Job, Family, etc.)?
Time management skills are critical for handling the technical elements of an online BS in software engineering. Before committing to an undergraduate program in our listings, consider the flexibility in your current schedule.
Some weeks will demand more hours of study than others due to a) the extra time demand for understanding more technical material; b) completing a capstone project; or c) solving unexpected issues with your computer code. Be sure to designate specific times and days of the week for your online coursework and allow some room for unanticipated technical challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Competitive is Admission to Online BS in Software Engineering Programs?
Requirements varies, but most online BS in software engineering programs are open to a wide range of candidates. For instance, Arizona State University requires a GPA minimum of 3.0, a SAT minimum of 1210 or an ACT minimum of 24, and official high school or GED transcripts. As a less selective school, Southern New Hampshire University requires prior transcripts but no test scores.
Is an Online Software Engineering Degree Harder than an On-Campus Program?
An online software engineering degree challenges you in the same ways as an on-campus degree. Courses and expectations do not vary between the two types of programs. Most schools’ websites make the equivalence of their programs a point of emphasis. For instance, Kennesaw State University states, “an online student can expect to spend at least as much time in an online course as they would in a face-to-face course.”
Is an Online Bachelor’s in Software Engineering Worth It?
An online BS in software engineering is equal to an on-campus degree—all schools award their diplomas for a degree in the same way. For instance, Arizona State University states that diplomas do not specify whether the degree was online or in-person.
If you have the discipline to finish your program, an online bachelor’s degree in software engineering will set you up for many well-paid job opportunities in a growing industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals in the field of software engineering earned a median annual salary of $109,020 in 2021. Economic indicators project job growth of 25% from 2021–2031.
All Online Bachelor's in Software Engineering Programs
55 Schools Found
Arizona
Arizona State University
Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
Tempe, Arizona
Grand Canyon University
College of Science, Engineering & Technology
Phoenix, Arizona
BS in Software Development
Offered Online
University of Arizona
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Tucson, Arizona
California
California Institute of Arts & Technology
Software Development
San Diego, California
Dominican University of California
Barowsky School of Business
San Rafael, California
The University of Arizona Global Campus
Forbes School of Business and Technology
San Diego, California
Colorado
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Department of Computer Science
Fort Collins, Colorado
Colorado Technical University
College of Computer Science, Engineering and Technology
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Pueblo Community College
Technology Pathway
Pueblo, Colorado
BAS in Secure Software Development
Offered Online
District of Columbia
Strayer University
Information Technology
Washington, District of Columbia
Florida
Brevard Community College
Computer Science & IT Division
Cocoa, Florida
Florida International University
College of Engineering and Computing
Miami, Florida
Saint Leo University
School of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Data Science (CARDS)
Saint Leo, Florida
St Petersburg College
Department of Technology
Clearwater, Florida
Georgia
Georgia Gwinnett College
School of Science and Technology
Lawrenceville, Georgia
Kennesaw State University
College of Computer and Software Engineering
Kennesaw, Georgia
BS in Software Engineering
Offered Online
Mercer University
College of Professional Advancement
Macon, Georgia
Middle Georgia State University
School of Computing
Cochran, Georgia
BSIT in Software Development
Offered Online
Illinois
American InterContinental University
Information Technology
Schaumburg, Illinois
Aurora University
Department of Computer Science
Aurora, Illinois
DePaul University
Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media
Chicago, Illinois
Indiana
Purdue Global
Information Technology
Indianapolis, Indiana
Kansas
Fort Hays State University
Department of Informatics
Hays, Kansas
Kentucky
Bellarmine University
College of Arts and Sciences
Louisville, Kentucky
Northern Kentucky University
College of Informatics
Highland Heights, Kentucky
BS in Applied Software Engineering
Offered Online
Maryland
University of Maryland-Global Campus
IT and Computer Science
Adelphi, Maryland
Massachusetts
Fisher College
Department of Computer Science
Boston, Massachusetts
Northeastern University
College of Professional Studies
Boston, Massachusetts
Michigan
Baker College
College of Information Technology & Engineering
Flint, Michigan
Davenport University
College of Technology
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Minnesota
Capella University
Engineering Department
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Saint Cloud State University
Department of Computer Science and Information Technology
Saint Cloud, Minnesota
University of Minnesota-Crookston
Math, Science and Technology Department
Crookston, Minnesota
Missouri
Maryville University
College of Arts and Sciences
Saint Louis, Missouri
Nebraska
Bellevue University
College of Science and Technology
Bellevue, Nebraska
BS in Software Development
Offered Online
New Hampshire
Southern New Hampshire University
School of Engineering, Technology, and Aeronautics
Manchester, New Hampshire
New York
SUNY College at Oswego
Shineman Center for Science, Engineering and Innovation
Oswego, New York
Ohio
Akron Institute of Herzing University
School of Technology
Akron, Ohio
Baldwin Wallace University
Department of Computer Science
Berea, Ohio
Tiffin University
Information Technology
Tiffin, Ohio
University of Cincinnati
College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services - Information Technology
Cincinnati, Ohio
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
School of Engineering Design, Technology, and Professional Programs
University Park, Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Limestone College
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
Gaffney, South Carolina
BS in Computer Science - Programming
Offered Online
Tennessee
Austin Peay State University
Department of Computer Science and Information Technology
Clarksville, Tennessee
South College
School of Computer Science and Engineering
Knoxville, Tennessee
Texas
DeVry University
Department of Technology - Software & Information Systems
Arlington, Virginia | Chicago, Illinois | Columbus, Ohio | Decatur, Georgia | Fort Washington, Pennsylvania | Irving, Texas | Miramar, Florida | Phoenix, Arizona | Pomona, California
Utah
Utah Tech University
Department of Integrated Studies
Saint George, Utah
Western Governors University
College of Information Technology
Salt Lake City, Utah
Bachelor of Science Software Development
Offered Online
Vermont
Champlain College
Champlain College Online
Burlington, Vermont
BS in Software Development
Offered Online
Virginia
ECPI University
College of Technology
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Washington
Bellevue College
Institute for Business and Technology
Bellevue, Washington
Renton Technical College
Technology Department
Renton, Washington
West Virginia
Salem International University
Computer Science Department
Salem, West Virginia
Wisconsin
Concordia University-Wisconsin
Department of Computer Science
Mequon, Wisconsin
Herzing University
School of Technology
Atlanta, Georgia | Birmingham, Alabama | Brookfield, Wisconsin | Kenner, Louisiana | Kenosha, Wisconsin | Madison, Wisconsin | Minneapolis, Minnesota | Winter Park, Florida